Standard Chartered Kenya and @iBizAfrica – Strathmore University have awarded KES 9.1 million in seed funding to seven women-led startups during the graduation of the eighth Women in Tech Accelerator Programme. Each enterprise received KES 1.3 million to scale tech-driven solutions targeting Kenya’s economic, social and environmental challenges.
The 2025 cohort attracted 84 applications, with fifteen women-led businesses selected for a 12-week accelerator that focused on sustainability, ESG integration, financial modelling and product development. A panel of industry experts and academic leaders selected the final seven winners based on solution innovation, market readiness and social impact.
Nivi Sharma, Standard Chartered Kenya Board Director, said, Every woman graduating today represents resilience, vision and the power of possibility. It is an honour to celebrate innovators who are breaking barriers and creating impact in their communities. Through the Women in Tech Programme, Standard Chartered continues to invest intentionally in women because we know that when women lead, innovation becomes more inclusive, sustainable and far-reaching. These graduates are setting the pace for Kenya’s future.”
Strathmore University Vice Chancellor Dr. Vincent Ogutu noted that the programme continues to shape ethical and future-ready African innovators. He said the graduating startups reflect the institution’s mission to develop leaders who transform society.
The Seven Funded Startups
- Etiba East Africa – Provides personalised in-home medical and wellness services.
- UzimaNexus – Offers a digital operating system designed to improve healthcare access, transparency and efficiency.
- Pollen Patrollers – Builds smart hive-monitoring technology that reduces colony loss and improves bee health.
- Tuwe Bora – Focuses on sustainable textiles, handcrafted fashion, tailor training and textile waste recycling.
- Busu Skincare – Creates natural skincare products using locally sourced ingredients.
- Timao Group – Transforms plastic waste into affordable and eco-friendly building materials.
- AshaCare – Delivers tailored community healthcare solutions that improve access and quality of care.
The Women in Tech Accelerator has received more than 1,621 applications over eight cohorts. Ninety-three women-led enterprises have gone through the programme, with 46 receiving a combined KES 50.6 million in funding. Participants have also gained access to mentorship, coaching, advisory support, networking and investor opportunities.
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Also Read: How Standard Chartered Is Embedding Sustainability in Kenya’s Economic Transformation